ISNA Canada Podcast

Building a Home: Navigating Our Deepest Relationships | Shaykh Belal AssadMost fights in life aren't actually about what we disagree on.In this insightful discussion, Sheikh Belal Assaad breaks down the true anatomy of conflict within our homes, marriages, and communities. Disagreement is a natural part of how Allah created us—it’s how we learn and grow. The real issue isn't the disagreement itself; it’s the tone, the words, and the treatment we choose.Drawing from his book Home Sweet Home and over 20 years of counseling experience, Sheikh Belal shares practical wisdom on how to bridge the communication gap between parents and children, build deep trust, and implement the "5 Ts" of harmonious relationships.What you’ll learn in this video:-Why some disagreement is actually healthy and necessary.-How communication barriers form between generations (and how to bridge them).-The power of listening with empathy and sharing vulnerable moments.-The "5 Ts" of a successful relationship: Trust, Transparency, Tolerance, Talking, and Time.-Understanding your partner’s unique "love language."0:00 Intro: Disagreement is where we grow1:06 Welcome & the book "Home Sweet Home"1:47 Rights, boundaries & the family as society's cell3:24 Why he wrote it: two decades of counseling5:33 Beyond the "just me and mine" mindset6:58 The migration crossroad & the generational gap8:28 Two broken homes — reconnecting in small moments10:20 The core skill: listening with empathy12:51 Conflict is about tone, not disagreement14:28 The Five Ts of a harmonious relationship16:59 The straw that broke the camel's back18:02 The power of words & love languages20:44 Making time & keeping relationships real21:52 Why we build emotional walls23:22 Breaking the ice (& Dale Carnegie)25:00 Loving for the sake of Allah26:01 Parting advice: taking the first step28:59 Closing

We’re surrounded by voices online — Imams, Influencers, Scholars, and everyone in between. But in all that noise, how do we actually find clarity?This episode, we sit with Ustadh Shabbir Hassan ( Teacher & Host of the IlmFeed Podcast) to talk about navigating the digital Islamic landscape, choosing who to take knowledge from, and staying grounded when every opinion feels louder than the last.A much-needed conversation for our times.

What does it take to truly learn? In this episode of The Journey To Knowledge, Shaykh Abdul Nasir Jangda reflects on the heart, discipline, and sincerity needed to walk the path of sacred knowledge — and what one must keep in mind along the way: that knowledge is not just information, but a means to transform the soul and draw closer to Allah.

Today, we bring together three powerful voices to reflect on one of the most enduring figures of our time: El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz — Malcolm X.Joining us is Ustadha Iesha Prime — a celebrated educator and spiritual leader who has long been at the forefront of reclaiming the sacred narrative of Black Muslim women and prophetic activism.We’re also joined by Imam Yasin Dwyer — a poet, chaplain, and thinker whose decades of work in prisons and Canadian institutions has carried forward the legacy of transformative leadership rooted in justice and mercy.And finally, Brother Shaun King — an activist, writer, and global voice on racial justice and systemic reform. He brings to this table a deeply personal and public journey of speaking truth to power.Together, they reflect on the life, struggle, and legacy of Malcolm X — not just as an icon of resistance, but as a man of faith, growth, and immense relevance in our world today.

In this episode of the ISNA Canada Podcast, we sit down withStephen Brown, CEO of theNational Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), to discuss the Supreme Court challenge againstBill 21, the rise ofIslamophobia in Canada, and the role of Muslim political engagement. Brown explains whyQuebec’s approach to religious minorities affects all Canadians, how thenot withstanding clause is being used to strip away fundamental rights, and why Muslims must take an active role in shaping Canada’s future. He also reflects on theGreen Square Campaign and the tragic lessons from the Quebec City Mosque massacre. As Canada approaches acritical election, this conversation is a must-watch for those who care aboutjustice, advocacy, and the future of Muslim rights in Canada.

In this episode, Shaykh Usman Qamar and Ustadh Abdelrahman Murphy dive into the essential role of third spaces in the Muslim community. These spaces go beyond traditional masjids, offering a place where everyone—especially those who feel disconnected—can find belonging, spiritual growth, and meaningful connections.Through heartfelt stories and deep insights, they explore how third spaces nurture the soul, foster community, and inspire individuals to embrace their faith in a way that feels welcoming and relevant.Whether you're searching for your place in the community or passionate about building one, this episode will leave you inspired.00:00 Introduction: A Special Conversation01:16 Episode Begins: A Warm Welcome02:04 The Journey of Roots04:06 Filling the Gap for Young Professionals07:18 Expanding to Serve All Generations08:55 The Philosophy of Roots14:08 Why Many Feel Disconnected18:32 Third Spaces and the Masjid21:02 Transforming Lives Through Community25:05 Building a Holistic Ecosystem27:04 How to Start Your Own Community Space34:37 Closing Thoughts: Bringing Medina to Life

In this episode of the ISNA Canada Podcast, we sit down with Ustadh Mohammed Isaaq, founder and principal instructor at Claritas Universal, to explore the transformative power of self-knowledge. With years of expertise in behavioral intelligence and the classical science of the four temperaments, Ustadh Isaaq shares profound insights into how understanding ourselves can lead to personal and spiritual growth.Discover how the four temperaments—a framework rooted in centuries of Islamic scholarship—can enhance your relationships, improve your well-being, and deepen your connection with Allah. Ustadh Isaaq discusses practical ways to integrate mind, body, and soul, offering a holistic, spiritually rooted approach to navigating life’s challenges. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation filled with timeless wisdom and actionable takeaways.Timestamps:0:00 Introduction0:55 Guest Introduction1:20 Why Knowing Yourself Matters3:30 Four Temperaments vs. Other Methods9:21 Overview of the Four Temperaments12:04 Practical Applications of the Temperaments15:04 Identifying Dominant and Subdominant Traits17:18 Defining the Four Temperaments23:22Cultural Influences on Temperament27:28 Temperaments and Conflict33:28 Secular Psychology vs. Holistic Frameworks38:12 Temperaments and Spiritual Growth43:27 Virtues and Vices of Temperaments49:25 Why Self-Reflection Matters55:19 Empowerment Through Responsibility56:22 Conclusion

In life, we often find ourselves standing at the edge of uncertainty, longing for answers and clarity. Ask and Surrender: Navigating the Unknown with Faith explores the profound act of placing trust in Allah during life’s most unpredictable moments. Drawing from deeply personal experiences and the wisdom shared in Suhaib Rumi’s book, this conversation delves into the transformative power of surrendering control, aligning your intentions with faith, and removing the barriers that hinder connection with the Creator. Discover how to navigate the unknown with peace and purpose, trusting that Allah’s plan unfolds perfectly, even when it comes from the most unexpected places. Chapters: (00:00) The Story Behind “Suhaib Rumi”(03:00) Life-Changing Lessons from Solitary Confinement(07:50) Trusting Allah in the Unknown(10:40) The Birds and Divine Provision(13:00) Planting Faithful Seeds in Life(15:50) What’s Blocking Your Prayers?(19:50) Overcoming Guilt and Shame in Faith(24:30) The Problem with New Age Spirituality(29:00) Letting Go of Control in Du’a(33:20) Why You Must Know Allah’s Attributes(36:40) A New Way to Look at Du’a(37:50) Final Words from Suhaib Rumi

Note: This episode has been recorded earlier in the year, but is still relevant to the events taking place in the world today.In this powerful episode of the ISNA Canada Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Yasir Khan, an ophthalmologist and facial trauma specialist, and Dr. Noor Amin, a primary care physician, who have returned from medical missions in Gaza. These two doctors share their firsthand accounts of the overwhelming humanitarian crisis, the resilience of the people, and the devastating impact of war on Gaza’s healthcare system.As they recount their experiences in overcrowded hospitals and make-do clinics, they also reflect on how their Islamic faith carried them through moments of hardship. From the strength of the people of Gaza to the challenges of delivering critical care under siege, this conversation offers a unique window into the on-the-ground realities faced by Gaza’s healthcare workers.Join us as we explore the intersection of medicine, faith, and resilience in one of the most war-torn regions of the world. This episode sheds light not only on the horrors of conflict but also on the enduring spirit of a community fighting for survival.Subscribe to our channel for more impactful stories, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.00:00- Intro to the Podcast00:49- Doctors’ Introductions02:32 - Witnessing the Atrocities04:05 - Living in Constant Danger07:18 - Devastation of Gaza’s Hospitals08:52 - Camps in Hospitals11:06 - Exploring Nasser Hospital’s Ruins18:28 - Unbreakable Faith Amidst Tragedy20:32 - Unshakeable Positivity and Faith23:34 - Children Learning Quran29:28 - Acknowledgment from the Outside World31:25 - Unyielding Dignity32:51 - Protests and Solidarity Bring Hope

In this episode, Ustadh Amjad Tarsin delves into the ways in which we can protect our hearts from worldly matters. He outlines the harms of putting worldly success as the metric of our lives and how that effects our relationship with Allah. Ustadh Amjad discusses how each of us should cultivate our souls to seek nearness to Allah, and His Messenger rather than busying ourselves with social media and people's opinions.